Dexter James Svetlik
Dexter James Svetlik departed this world on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023, after a lengthy battle with heart disease.
Dexter was born in Hallettsville to Anton and Frances Svetlik on Aug. 16, 1953.
He spent his formative years in the Hallettsville area and attended the Hallettsville school system. He graduated from Hallettsville High School in 1971. Dexter went on to attend Texas A&M University, graduating with a degree in Horticulture in 1975.
After college, he began his career with Greenleaf Nursery in El Campo, following his love of plants, nature and the outdoors. In 1982, he continued his career with the USDA Soil Conservation Service, now known as the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), serving in various roles.
After 28 years of service, Dexter retired from the NRCS in 2011 to his farm in the Witting area. After retirement he spent his time tending to his cattle and pecan trees, which he had planted and nurtured over the years.
Dexter was always a very comical person and the source of many memorable moments. He was always open to host family gatherings and many fond memories were made at his home. He had a soft spot in his heart and made a home for many kittens and puppies that had lost their way. He would often be seen walking the local roads, following his strict exercise routine.
Dexter is survived by five brothers, Dennis of Witting; Larry (Carolyn) of Hallettsville; Gary (Beverly) of Shiner; Archie (Virginia) of Smithville; Kenneth (Mary Ann) of Hurst; and five sisters, Blanche Cavarretta (Roy), Joyce Timm (Carl), Diane Munson (John), all of Hallettsville; Val Hardt (Tim) of Castroville; Debbie Barron (Bill) of Katy. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.Dexter was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Frances Svetlik; brother, Patrick Svetlik and nephew/godchild, Ryan Munson.
Visitation began at 4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7 at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville. Rosary followed at 6 p.m.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m., Monday, Jan. 8 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Interment followed in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers were nephews, Chad Svetlik, Keith Svetlik, Andy Svetlik, Charlie Munson, Steven Hardt and Cole Barron.
Honorary pallbearers were Cody Timm and Ethan Munson.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1648 FM 340, Hallettsville, Texas 77964; Priests for Life, P.O. Box 236695, Cocoa, FL 32923-9800, or a charity of donors’ choice.